Andy Farrell pleased with Ireland’s preparations ahead of crunch Scotland clash

Andy Farrell believes Grand Slam-chasing Ireland have become well-versed in handling the emotion of big occasions ahead of Sunday’s colossal Guinness Six Nations showdown with Scotland.

The world’s top-ranked nation are strong favourites for victory at what is likely to be a hostile Murrayfield as they seek to stay on course for a championship clean sweep following wins over Wales, France and Italy.

Scotland also have plenty at stake and must secure a first Triple Crown in 33 years to remain in title contention on the day long-serving full-back Stuart Hogg claims his 100th cap.

Watch more from Head Coach Andy Farrell as he named his Ireland team to face Scotland ⬇️#TeamOfUs | #GuinnessSixNations

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Ireland head coach Farrell – a serial winner during his playing career in rugby league – insists there is no substitute for practising good habits in order to deliver when the pressure is on.

Asked about common factors in successful teams, he replied: “It’s in the process, isn’t it? It’s in the preparation and there’s only one way to fully believe really without it being plastic.

“You can’t prepare half-hearted and expect to walk out confident because when you are in the cauldron, it squeezes everything out of you.

“Our preparation is absolutely key to that and how we make each other feel all week and understanding if everyone is on the same page and everyone feels the same, that’s absolutely the key.